An initiative founded by a unique consortium will help the unemployed and provide affordable housing in Teesside, those in social housing jobs may be interested to know.

The project was backed by an interesting joint venture; including Coast & Country (a regeneration and housing company), Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, East Cleveland Youth Housing Trust and Community Campus 87. It will see empty houses being redeveloped and leased, in a bid to resolve social housing issues throughout the area.

As reported by North-East Business, the empty homes will be re-developed by local job-seekers, giving them the chance to learn new skills and make a real difference to the community. Ultimately it is hoped the skills they learn will also help their future employment chances.

"The project demonstrates how agencies can work successfully in partnership to make a positive impact in the community," said the chief executive of Coast & Country, Iain Sim.

News of the project has been warmly received, particularly by trainees working on the houses. Speaking to Property Talk Live, one of the job-seekers working on the scheme, Michael McCorry, said: "If it wasn't for this project, I would still be unemployed and sitting in front of the TV."

"The extra training and skills I'm picking up are helping to build my confidence. I hope this is the start to a career in painting and decorating."

It is thought the venture, which was funded by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), will redevelop and lease around ten properties this year, with another ten to be completed in 2012.